#LetsRejoice by: Julie Wicker

My word for 2018 is “Rejoice”
My Mantra is “Be Brave”

REJOICE, a reminder to carry the Christmas spirit with me 365 days this year. What better way to do this but to meditate on “Rejoice always. Pray continually. Give thanks in every situation because this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
‭‭1 Thess 5:16-18‬ ‭CEB‬‬

Our Pastor preached a sermon on these scripture verses during Advent. He said they were God’s Christmas list. Our Joy in Jesus Christ will overcome our sorrow and by praying continually we are able to give thanks in all circumstances. He went on to quote one of my favorite scriptures, “We know that God works all things together for good for the ones who love God, for those who are called according to his purpose.” Ro‬ ‭8:28‬ ‭CEB‬‬. How can we not rejoice in the hope of God’s promises?

As I’ve gone through the 2017 advent season; the arrival of something long awaited for, I too have been in a time of waiting. Steven Furtick says, “Advent is a lessening of yourself and a time of reflection”. I’ve certainly had time to reflect on where God has brought me from. I have a renewed hope of where God wants to take me. “Don’t remember the prior things; don’t ponder ancient history. Look! I’m doing a new thing; now it sprouts up; don’t you recognize it? I’m making a way in the desert, paths in the wilderness.” Isa 43:18-19‬ ‭CEB.

As God is doing something new and making new paths I resolve to be Brave. My God is faithful in his promises. He’s making a way where there is no way!! My hope rests in Him.

We sing of this hope in songs like, Hope was born this night by Sidewalk Prophets; “like a shepherd so scared, I’ll rejoice and declare that Hope was born that night”. Then there’s the song Oh Come Oh Come Emmanuel by Kelly Clarkson; “Rejoice! rejoice!  Emmanuel shall come to you, Israel. These lyrics come from bible passages; “Look! A virgin will become pregnant and give birth to a son, And they will call him, Emmanuel. ( Emmanuel means “God with us.”)” Matt 1:23‬ ‭CEB‬‬

Let us go about our days in 2018 knowing God is with us. Let us rejoice!!!

As you ponder your word or mantra for 2018, I would also love to hear What your favorite Christmas or worship song is. Here are a few of my favorite Christmas songs;

Christmas Eve in Bethlehem by: Hannah Kerr

I heard the Bells on Christmas Day by: Casting Crowns

Mary Did You Know by: Pentatonix

Upcoming Events!!
We would love to invite all of you to experience the upcoming Woman’s Retreat at Herbert Memorial UMC. A time for Refreshment and Renewal, Water for the Soul. Save the date, Friday January 19th & Saturday January 20th. Registration Form Below:

2018 Refresh & Renew Registration Form